circulation privileges
A valid Library card is required to borrow library materials. A borrower is responsible for all materials checked out on his/her card. Cards are not transferable.
Books
Alumni wishing to have a library card may purchase one for $10. They may check out up to 10 items, and renew these items one time. The loan period is for 28 days. All Saint Mary’s College Alumni may purchase an Alumni Library Card. Picture identification and verification of alumni status is required (Alumni Directory, diploma, campus Alumni office).
Community Borrowers may purchase a library card for a $50 annual fee. This card allows them to check out up to five items at a time and allows one renewal. The loan period is 28 days. Residents of Contra Costa or Alameda County may apply for a Community Borrower’s Card. Picture identification and proof of residency are required (e.g., a California driver’s license).
Community Borrowers and Alumni may not check out books from the Bestsellers collection, the Reserve Collection, the collection of multicultural children's literature, or instructional and reserve videos. Community Borrowers and Alumni may not borrow books through Link+. The library card does not entitle them to access remotely the proprietary databases. These databases are licensed for faculty, staff, and students enrolled at the college only.
Books may be renewed in person, by phone, or in Albert (the online catalog). In Albert, select My Albert Account/Renew and type in your name and 14-digit bar code number from the back of your Library card. Choose Items Currently Checked Out, then select Renew All or Renew Selected. To renew by phone, call (925) 631-4229 and give your name and the title of the book. Books which have Holds or Recalls placed on them, or books which have a "Billed" status, may not be renewed.
When materials become overdue, patrons will be sent a courtesy reminder by e-mail. An outside book drop, at the rear of the library, is available 24 hours/day. An additional book drop, for use when the Library is closed, is located near the front of the Library. The borrower is responsible for any late fines or lost book charges whether or not he/she received a notice from the library. Patrons must keep the library informed of any address changes.
Courtesy notices, hold/recall notices, and overdue notices are sent by e-mail. Long overdue materials are considered lost. If the materials are not returned, patrons will be billed a replacement charge of $50.00 per book, plus a $10 non-refundable billing fee. If the book is found and returned within one year of billing, the replacement cost of $50.00 will be refunded. For billing questions, contact Norm Partridge (925) 631-8212.
